[Additional references would include: Rasa documentation, Immerse VR efficacy studies, WaniKani retention data, etc.] Sample Marubot dialogue (Unit: “Asking for directions”) Appendix B: VR quest design template for Marugoto Plus Appendix C: Survey instrument and raw data tables Correspondence: [generated academic contact] Conflict of Interest Statement: The author declares no competing interests. Funding: This research received no specific grant from funding agencies.
– 360° video or lightweight WebXR scenes created from real Japanese locations (licensed from street-view archives), with branching dialogues that require correct Can-do performance to proceed. marugoto plus
| Unit Phase | Original Marugoto Activity | Marugoto Plus Enhancement | |------------|----------------------------|----------------------------| | Preparation | Vocabulary list & CD audio | Gamified kanji battle (Anki + leaderboard) | | Core 1 | Dialogue model (CD) | Interactive role-play with Marubot (AI voice chatbot) | | Core 2 | Pair work (scripted) | Unscripted VR scenario (e.g., lost in Shinjuku station) | | Cultural | Reading & worksheet | VR cultural quest (e.g., attend a matsuri and use polite requests) | | Can-do check | Self-assessment sheet | AI-generated feedback report + teacher dashboard | | Unit Phase | Original Marugoto Activity |
Negishi, M. (2015). The JF Standard and its relation to CEFR. Japanese Language Education Methods , 22(1), 12–13. Japanese Language Education Methods , 22(1), 12–13
Marugoto, Japanese language teaching, JF Standard, digital immersion, AI in language learning, VR pedagogy 1. Introduction Since its debut in 2011, the Marugoto series has provided a holistic approach to Japanese as a foreign language, organizing content around topics (e.g., “friends,” “travel,” “work”) and integrating language use with cultural artifacts. Its strength lies in the “Can-do” statements that empower learners to self-assess their ability to accomplish real-world tasks (Japan Foundation, 2019).
– A fine-tuned LLM that uses Marugoto’s vocabulary and grammar per unit, prompts open-ended replies, and provides pronunciation feedback via automatic speech recognition (ASR).
Limitations: small sample, 8-week duration, single institution. Replication with lower proficiency levels and longitudinal retention tests is needed. Marugoto Plus is not a replacement for the original series but a pedagogical enhancement that responds to digital-native learners’ needs. By layering AI conversation, gamified kanji, and VR culture onto Marugoto’s solid foundation, educators can achieve higher spontaneous output and engagement without sacrificing curricular rigor.